These candid shots of stars relaxing on the beach, playing tennis or just ‘goofing around’ on the back-lots of the movie studios were produced in their thousands, providing endless fodder for their legions of fans, desperate to have a peak at their idols off-duty. However, these shots were far from ‘natural’. Stars were contractually obliged to perform for the static camera, as they did on set, with locations, props and wardrobe, all carefully selected and prepared to create an artificial wonderland, perpetuating the illusion of glamour.

These seminal images created a system of stars in which the cinema-going audience are complicit in their making: ‘in this sort of Photography the camera is the mirror and we the fans are basking in the polished beauty.’

All the works in this exhibition have been kindly lent by the John Kobal Foundation. John Kobal is widely recognised for rediscovering the great Hollywood Studio Photographers and the Foundation continues to promote this work, mounting exhibitions worldwide and publishing a number of books including Glamour of the Gods, Hollywood Unseen and Hollywood Dogs. To find out more please visit www.johnkobal.org

5 February – 16 March

Admission prices

Ticket includes admission to all concurrent exhibitions

Adults: £5.00 (includes a 50p donation)

Concessions: £3.50 (includes a 40p donation)

Under 16s/SGS, UoB & UWE students: FREE

Art Fund card holders: By donation - suggested minimum £2

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